Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Moving updates to this Blog

Hello!

It took me awhile to realize how ineffective my 'Hospital News' is in my gmail account. I think this will probably be a better way to keep people up to date with Chico's status.

For people coming upon this five days later: Chico was in a car accident last Friday night. He had - well there is speculation about what happened: Did he fall asleep? Was there a 'medical episode?' - at any rate he hit a tree head on and got pretty banged up. He is doing really well now-survival being assured, no head trauma, no spinal problems so far. He has many broken bones and will need further surgery as soon as the soft tissue on the leg heals. A full recovery is expected.

Last night,one of the rescue workers from the med evac team visited Chico in ICU. That was incredibly heartening and terrifying-both-to hear them talk about such a life changing, shared event from their very different perspectives. Luke was very pleased with Chico's progress. Encouraging. We three were full of wonder.

He was moved out of the the Surgical ICU at Albany Medical Center (43 New Scotland St, Albany, NY) and into a very small, private room- C511. Once settled, he slept well during the night.

Our son, Chester, is here. He is a compassionate and analytical thinker. Nice combo, and very useful in this situation. He is a great comfort to us.

Thanks for all the love and support from family and friends near and far.

I am so sorry about the accident and so happy about the prognosis. Chico and I met up the other day when I was walking Lola and had a great chat. Please tell him I am sending lots of healing thoughts his way and yours. If I can be of any help do not hesitate to ask.

Your information has been so helpful for those of us who cannot be with you right now - which is lucky, because that hospital would be crowded!It is heartwarming to hear of Chico's terrific progress, and of all the love and expertise that surrounds him. Keep up the good work, Chico! Sending lots of love! Nancy

Thanks for setting up the blog Susan. Tho I feel like I am on a new back road just checking out where it goes...where am i?...I am now feeling closer to you all and continue to send love and kisses. Marty, Terry and Tai

Susan, acceding to your request for comments, here goes. First, a giant sigh of relief! Miraculous that Chico came out of the accident with the expectation he'll fully recover from his injuries. His positive outlook is wonderful. He is also blessed with you and Chester in his corner.

An acquaintance of mine had a severe pelvic fracture (what they call an "open book fracture") and other injuries from going head first over his motorcycle. He has recovered very well and I think part of the reason is that he got into an intensive comprehensive rehabilitation therapy program at a residential care facility. There are lots of convalescent facilities that offer in-patient physical therapy, but just a few of these regional rehab centers. I went on the website for the one in Santa Barbara and they are certified by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities in Comprehensive Integrated Rehabilitation and Stroke Specialty Programs. The staff at the hospital probably can recommend something similar for Chico.

Best wishes to all as you embark on the road to recovery.

(By the way, Ev is feeling very pleased about his recent decision to lease a Subaru.)

I'm sending all the warm wishes and positive thoughts your way. Healing takes so much energy from both of you, so please know there is an abundance of support coming your way. Were you at school today?

Thinking of you all from South Hero. Sending Chester positive vibes as he helps his dad heal. Hoping Chico is on the upswing soon. Susan, you are an amazingly organized human! Positive vibes floating your way.

Oh Susan, I was sad to hear of Chico's accident. Please give him my love and tell him that is is in all our thoughts and that we are so thankful that he will be OK. Lots of love to you and Chester too, XXXOOO Carolyn